Public Health: Careers in Public Health

Students learn the public health functions and services through the lens of the public health workforce. Careers in public health and related fields are explored.

Winter Session Online Course: 12/27/21 - 1/14/22

Students learn the public health functions and services through the lens of the public health workforce. Careers in public health and related fields are explored. The public health workforce contains a diverse mix of occupations in a variety of work settings. The common thread among public health careers is a focus on disease prevention and health promotion. Public health focuses on the health of populations (e.g., communities, states, nations) rather than on the health of an individual. In this course, we will learn about the core functions and essential services of public health. We will explore common areas of public health practice (e.g., infectious diseases, environmental health, maternal and child health, etc.) and types of job settings (e.g., government, non-profits, and academia). Through readings and interviews, we will examine the wide range of careers that constitute public health practice (e.g., epidemiologist, public health nursing, administration), as well as careers outside of public health that have the potential to greatly influence the health of populations (e.g., urban/town planners). Students will reflect upon their own career goals and practice skills necessary for exploring career opportunities, preparing for advanced study, and applying for jobs and internships. Required Textbook: Seltzman, B., & Krasna, H. 101+ Careers in Public Health. 3rd ed. New York, NY: Springer Publishing Company; 2015. ISBN 978-0826146922. This is available through the Dana Medical Library.

This course is fast-paced, with each module lasting only a few days, and it is expected that students be actively engaged.

Grading is based on discussions (45%), short assignments (35%), and a career plan (20%).